Luther Devanie Murden, II

Luther "Luke" Devanie Murden II, a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and talented chef, passed away on March 6, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA. Born on August 7, 1959, Luke lived a life filled with passion, humor, and an undeniable love for food, travel, and the arts.

A proud graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Luke pursued his passion for cooking, inspiring many as a chef and later as a Culinary Arts teacher for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. He was also a stakeholder in the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, a cherished part of his family’s legacy.

Beyond the kitchen, Luke loved traveling—especially by sea—embracing new cultures and cuisines. He also had a deep appreciation for theatre and enjoyed supporting and sharing it with others. Known for his sharp wit, unfiltered honesty, and infectious sense of humor, Luke had a remarkable ability to bring people together. He was fiercely loyal to those he loved, and his presence was larger than life. Luke’s legacy is one of bold flavors, big laughs, and a life lived on his own terms. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Luke is lovingly remembered by his sister, Annette Murden Smith (Raymond); nephews, Kenneth and William Gilbert (Christine); nieces, Tambra Lynn Downs (Randy), Meigan Hood, and Jamie Carpenter (Brad); great-nephews and nieces, Ashton Lande (Shawna), Evan Gilbert (Merritt), Joshua Hood, Jonas Gilbert, Rachel Gilbert, Tucker Carpenter, and Grayson Carpenter; and his loyal West Highland Terrier, Barney, along with many dear friends and family members who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather and namesake, Luther Devanie Murden I (Lucy Dawley); his parents, Kennith O. Murden and Ersel Blake; brother, Allen “Gator” Murden; and life partner of 21 years, Dennis Scott Bradshaw.

A memorial service will be held on March 30th at 2:00 p.m. at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home, where we will come together to remember and celebrate a life well-lived. Later that evening, at 5:00 p.m., join us at New Realm Brewing Company for a Celebration of Life. This gathering will be a time for family and friends to share stories, laughter, and cherished memories, honoring his legacy in the company of loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Polycystic Kidney Foundation (PKDCure.org), your local humane society, or a theatre organization in Luke’s honor.